Chamber hosts new event

Jacksboro Chamber of Commerce officials are trying a new way to get information out about the community.

On Sept. 7, the group had its first quarterly update of what’s happening in the community at Concerned Citizens of Jack County. Businesses and organizations were given a short time to discuss what’s going on with them.

Chamber Executive Director Tiffany Fallon spoke of two events coming up this Fall, including a Classic Car Show Oct. 22 in conjunction with the last Farmer’s Market of the season, and the annual ChiliFest Nov. 12. Volunteers to work both events are needed. To take part in both, call the chamber office at 567-2602.

Long Term Recovery Committee Chair Joel Hood gave an update of what the organization has been doing. The March 21 tornado affected 231 households and 24 businesses. He said most have been contacted by e-mail, phone are actual physical visits.

Case workers have screened 82 of them with those that may still need help encouraged to come by the workers’ office at the First United Methodist Church. A fundraising effort by the North Texas Council of the United Methodist Committee on Relief is hoping to raise $500,000 for the victims. A campaign video is being shot with victims able to tell their story.

A fair to help victims get even more non-financial help is scheduled for Sept. 19 from 6-7:30 pm at the Church of Christ Activity Center. Organizations like the food bank, WIC, the Jack County Pregnancy Center will be on hand giving presentations along with a mold remediation expert, a certified public adjuster and others.

Jacksboro ISD Assistant Superintendent Sara Mathis gave an update on the start of school. Things are off to a “great start” with the three schools having a combined 1,060 students. Construction on the gyms damaged in the tornado is expected to take between 12-18 months with work only going on while students are not around.

Mathis also spoke of the formation of a facilities vision committee which will have its first meeting Sept. 19. The district facilities are nearly 15 years old and district officials and students knowing they need more than what the district can give them at the present time.

Community members, staff and school board members will meet over the next four months to determine the needs and are expected to bring it to the board in January.

Fort Richardson State Park Interpreter Connor Ricard said the park is full through the month of October for camping with the major Trunk or Treat event set for Oct. 29.

Jacksboro Police will be hosting the National Night Out event from 6-8 p.m. Tuesday, Oct. 4 at Jacksboro Middle School. Community members will be able to interact first responder equipment.